Mass spectrum exercises

The spectrum of atomic chlorine.

Identify the different isotopes present and their relative abundance in %.

Calculate the relative atomic mass of this element.

Identify the different isotopes present and their relative abundance in %.

Calculate the relative atomic mass of this element.

Molecules of different compounds can be identified by the mass spectrum that they generate. Under extreme heat they fragment into smaller, distinct particles. The mass spectrum on the left is of nitrogen gas. Identify each peak. Click the relevant peak for the solution.

** HINT dont forget that the x axis is mass/charge. So an oxygen atom with a mass of 16 and a charge of 2+ will have a peak at position (16/2) 8 along the x axis. While a carbon dioxide molecule with a mass of 44 and a charge of 1+ will have a peak at position (44/1) 44 along the x axis.

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The peak is most probably that of nitrogen molecule with a mass of 28 and a charge of 1+. This peak is most probably that of a nitrogen atom with a mass of 14 and a charge of 1+ This peak is most probably that of a nitrogen atom with a mass of 14 and a charge of 2+.